The Football Association has widened its 'fast-track' disciplinary process to cover more misconduct cases.
Fast-track system to cover more misconduct cases
The Football Association has widened its 'fast-track' disciplinary process to cover more misconduct cases.
The changes mean that all straightforward matchday cases, which now include post-match comments to the media, can be dealt with quicker.
The FA now plans to raise charges inside three days, giving those concerned longer to respond.
Paper cases will then be held within three days and those involving personal hearings being done within 10.
The new regulations have been drawn up after a period of detailed consultation with representatives from, amongst others, the Premier League, Football League, PFA and the League Managers' Association.
It is felt this is a natural step forward following the success of the fast-track system, which ensured players are now suspended with immediate effect rather than having them drag on for a period of time.
Each case will be categorised standard or non-standard depending on the participant's previous record. Standard cases will apply for first-time offences, taking into account the current and preceding season. Non-standard cases refer to repeat offences or those of a more serious nature.
Penalties
In standard cases a set penalty will be offered with the charge, with a one-third reduction on offer for those who accept.
However, if a charge is denied and is subsequently proven, the penalty which will then apply will be higher than the one offered.
In this instance a participant may request a personal hearing, to be heard within ten days of their response.
In non-standard cases no penalty will be offered with the charge letter and any penalty ultimately imposed by a Regulatory Commission will be at their discretion. In these instances participants can request a personal hearing.
Darren Bailey, director of football governance and regulation, said: "The new procedures are designed to provide a faster more streamlined, transparent and consistent framework for a broader range of football disciplinary offences.
"From this season the aim is to have all standard football misconduct cases covered by the scheme dealt with in days and not weeks.
"We believe that the new standard procedures, on which there has been close consultation with game stakeholders, will further enhance the disciplinary process which in turn will benefit the game and all participants."
Fast-track charges will now cover the following areas:
Technical area offences
Mass confrontation
Confrontation of a match official
Media comments
On-field incidents not seen by match officials or outside jurisdiction
Wrongful dismissals
